OFFENSE FROM THE DEFENSE

I've found myself drifting towards the Leafs defensemen across the CHL. It's no secret how much I favor puck rushing blueliners, those with the ability to move the puck up through the neutral zone and gain the opposition zone. That's Morgan Rielly.

Matt Finn added a more creative offensive element, to compliment outlet passing ability, as Sean Lafortune stated during his draft year. There's a good example here of a capable partner to a prime rushing defenseman, say Rielly, with a stronger two-way presence, the ability to contribute offensively, while being defensively responsible.

Stuart Percy has been a steady points producer throughout the season. He's developed some of the offensive side of his game as well, but he's likely to remain a strong defensive presence. If there's one thing all young defensemen should learn to incorporate into their reportoire is a crisp, accurate outlet pass. Percy won't have to be relied upon as an offensive catalyst, maintaining that outlet passing ability will enhance the transition game.

Gus Katsaros is the Pro Scouting Coordinator for McKeen's Hockey. Follow him on twitter @KatsHockey or his blog Kats Krunch at mckeenshockey.com